Dedication - Melissa T. Holloway

May 24, 1989|By MELANIE S. HATTER

When Melissa T. Holloway is not working with Mary Immaculate Hospital as an Industrial Health Nurse for SURA/CEBAF, she is volunteering her time with the Poquoson Rescue Squad. After 13 years with the squad she is still as enthusiastic as when she first joined.

She visits civic organizations in the area and always asks the new members if they have visited the Fire Department/Rescue Squad. Very few answer "yes." "When people dial 911 they assume that we will be there, and so we are dedicated to being there."

"It's not a career that allows for a big house by the water and two cars in the garage, but it's one that provides so many positive personal rewards that money can't buy," says Holloway.

Recruitment is difficult because of the dedication required. Holloway explains that a volunteer must complete 100 hours of basic training for Emergency Medical Technician before taking written and practical state tests every three years. Training for EMT-Cardiac or EMT-Paramedic involves state tests every two years.

Holloway teaches cardiopulmonary resusitation and First Aid for the American Red Cross.

"I'm very hard on the young people in my classes because it's not a game, it's someone's life. All I expect of them is that they retain the information and perform to the best of their abilities. That's one of the rewards:to know that you've done the best you can do."

She has been married 18 years to a career firefighter/cardiac technician with the Poquoson Fire Department and her 15-year-old son has recently become an apprentice fireman.

Life is hectic for the family, who never have time to plan vacations but "just pick up and go" to the mountains where they can relax.

Holloway represents the Prehospital Committee for the Peninsula Emergency Medical Services and serves on the Manpower and Training Committee and the Rescue Squad Assistance Fund, which provides grants to squads that need equipment.